What are the Taxonomy and Framework?
What is the Taxonomy?
Taxonomy is the science of classification. At Fairly Made, it is used to organize and structure the different product categories and items in our system. It corresponds to the dropdown lists in the BDC, enabling reliable data input.
Example: Product categories include SHIRTS, T-SHIRTS, POLOS…
What is the Framework?
The framework defines the models associated with different product categories. It is especially useful for filling in missing data to carry out the analysis of your products.
Example: To analyse a HOODIE, we need a set of specific information such as weight (product and components), its materials, manufacturing steps, etc.
Taxonomy and framework are inherently connected: the latter relies on the former. An item not included in the taxonomy cannot be integrated into the framework.
What are the Taxonomy and Framework used for?
Use of the Taxonomy
Our taxonomy is a universal language that harmonizes exchanges between clients, suppliers, and products. Each company has its own vocabulary, and needs can be very specific. Thanks to a standardized and clear terminology, we ensure smooth and accurate information management.
We use keys to structure this taxonomy. These keys are the values found in the Brand Data Collection, allowing for comprehensible information display across interfaces, while ensuring multilingual translation.
Concrete example: the key “COTTON” appears as “Coton” in French and “Cotton” in English.
In short, our taxonomy is the GPS of our data, ensuring clear and effective navigation.
Use of the Framework
The framework structures and links all our keys based on precise rules.
It plays a central role in:
- Filling in missing data when needed — e.g., product components, their weight, or the standard manufacturing steps.
- Bringing more consistency to the data and ensuring simplified form completion for suppliers when submitting information.
The goal? Fewer errors, more efficiency.
How and when are the Taxonomy and Framework updated?
Our taxonomy and framework are constantly evolving to adapt to the needs of clients, suppliers, internal teams, and regulatory changes.
Listening to client and supplier needs
Our analysts identify missing elements based on client and supplier feedback. Each request is evaluated against our data model:
If validated, the new information is added to the taxonomy and the framework.
For example, adding a new product category requires:
- Defining the weight of its components (down to the smallest detail, like zippers on leggings—we anticipate every scenario, even the least likely!)
- Adding the traceability steps and other essential data.
Today, our taxonomy and framework include over 50 databases that are regularly updated. A dynamic ecosystem in constant evolution.